The holidays are here, and Downtown Valparaiso is the perfect place to find those one-of-a-kind gifts - and snacks. Under the twinkling lights lining Lincolnway await shops galore, stretching the length of the walkable streets on all sides of the historic courthouse. This year, don’t shop until you drop - stop to refuel at Blackbird Cafe!
From cookies to sandwiches, Blackbird Cafe can be home to a snack or lunch break in the midst of enjoying holiday festivities and the business of downtown Valparaiso. It’s also a great place to get a pick-me-up or jolt of caffeine to power through your day. The atmosphere is particularly cozy at the holidays, with storefront seating overlooking the busy sidewalks a few blocks east of the courthouse.
Blackbird Cafe has rolled out several seasonal offerings to help get you into the holiday spirit.
The Eggnog Latte - A delicious mixture of espresso and steamed eggnog topped with cinnamon, the eggnog latte is sure to get your tastebuds singing “Joy to the World.”
San Francisco Herbal Tea - A comforting blend of cinnamon, clove, and “other delicious and fragrant spices,” the San Francisco herbal tea is a great option to sip on while you sort through your shopping lists and check them twice.
Blackbird also has three seasonal-flavored syrups that can be added to any coffee or latte: lavender, pumpkin pie spice, and peppermint bark. Liven up your beverage and get yourself in the mood for some holly, jolly fun.
While not specifically holiday-themed, the E11even sandwich special is a great homage to Netflix’s original series Stranger Things, which heavily used Christmas lights, so it counts, right? Layered between two waffles are slices of ham, egg, swiss cheese, and your choice of strawberry or grape jelly. It’s tasty enough to satisfy even a Demogorgon.
In addition to the seasonal specials, Blackbird has a hearty regular menu with plenty of items to fuel your day. We’ve compiled a list of some of our absolute favorites and must-try items here:https://valpo.life/article/tuesday-rituals-with-blackbird-cafe/.
In the mood for a sweet treat? The pastry case at Blackbird Cafe is always full of yummy options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Pies, cookies, scones... the list goes on. Don’t forget about the locally-famous Everything Cookie - cherished by all who get them before they run out each day.
You can even do a little holiday shopping while you’re at Blackbird Cafe. For those coffee lovers in your life, a gift card to Blackbird makes an excellent stocking stuffer!
Grab a seat by the Christmas tree while you catch up with a friend, or take some much-needed alone time to read a good book, all while sipping and noshing on some delicious fare at Blackbird Cafe. Pull up a stool at the window and enjoy a unique view of the holiday lights and holiday shoppers as you sip your cappuccino. You’ll feel like you’re in a Hallmark Christmas movie.
For more information on Blackbird, visit their website at https://www.blackbirdcafevalparaiso.com/.
